Voice of the people (letter).

Future Trains

February 04, 1999|By David Tomzik.

WHEELING — The recent announcement by Amtrak and the Federal Railroad Administration regarding their commitment to the regional high-speed rail network for the Midwest should be commended ("Midwest promised $25 million by Amtrak," Metro Chicago, Jan. 29).

Improved Midwest rail service will reduce travel times and provide improved frequencies and passenger amenities, along with serving significant travel markets. This service will also reduce highway and aviation congestion, provide for economic development throughout the Midwest and provide improved mobility.

Illinois needs to properly invest in high-speed rail. It is also cost-effective. To invest in one mile of rail will cost $1 million compared to highway building at $10 million a mile. We can no longer afford to build more highways and another airport.

High-speed rail will provide the regional connections to O'Hare International and Mitchell International Airports in Milwaukee. It's time for our state legislators and members of Congress to invest in rail passenger service.